Additional information and support

There have been great efforts to advance the understanding of ADHD by a variety of professionals. They share my desire and dedication to support and empower individuals with ADHD. These collective efforts have helped people begin to understand brain function, raised awareness of the complexities of ADHD, and highlighted resources for people to explore. First, let’s take a brief look at ADHD.

What is ADD/ADHD?

Daily challenges of living with ADHD

Limited ability to focus on a task or effectively shift focus

Getting started on and/or completing tasks

Forgetfulness

Creating and establishing daily routines

Effectively managing unscheduled time

Leaving home on time with everything you need

Losing or misplacing things

Difficulty preparing for important tasks

Getting sidetracked

Procrastination unless under the pressure of a deadline

A brief history

ADHD is brain-based condition that can impact many aspects of daily life—responsibilities, careers, relationships and self-confidence to name a few. Decades ago, ADHD was thought to be a childhood condition characterized by physical restlessness: hyperactivity, distractibility, and inattention. However, research has expanded the definition of ADHD to include three different types/presentations: predominately hyperactive (physically restless), predominately inattentive (mentally restless) and combined (both physically and mentally restless). Studies have also shown that approximately 60% of children will carry some of the symptoms of ADHD throughout their life. The degree of interference created by the ADHD varies for each individual and even within families

Because of these scientific advances, parents recognize their own lifelong challenges during their child’s evaluation, and adults are seeking to understand why performing what seems to be simple tasks for others has evaded their mastery. A formal evaluation by a qualified mental health practitioner is the first step. Once formally identified, intervention options identified for ADHD vary by age may include: medication, psychotherapy (individual/couple), school and workplace accommodations and coaching.

How ADHD affects life skills

One of the more recent discoveries is the presence of inconsistent executive function skills. These skills, which are under development until the age of 30, help us regulate our thoughts and actions to accomplish our daily tasks and responsibilities. Executive functions help us plan, prioritize, organize, remember, manage time, see tasks to completion and regulate our emotions. Consequently, these skills impact every aspect of a person’s life, daily roles and responsibilities.

Help from an expert

Given the complexity of ADHD, you'll find it worthwhile to work with a credentialed ADHD coach who has the specialized knowledge and training to help you accomplish your goals.